SPOILER ALERT!—When watching a murder film, we usually try to guess who the killer is, right? But this movie flips the script—you’ll find yourself wondering, “Who’s actually the victim here?” At first glance, Strange Darling (2023) might seem like a typical thriller. But the longer you watch, the more you realize it’s anything but ordinary. The plot isn’t just about a chase or a serial killer; it completely upends audience expectations. On top of that, the film is shot entirely on 35mm film, giving it an authentic visual style that stands out from most modern thrillers. Directed by JT Mollner, Strange Darling holds a 7.1/10 rating on IMDb from 47,000 viewers.
A Non-Traditional Plot Formula
What sets Strange Darling apart from other thrillers is its storytelling approach. Instead of following the classic “whodunnit” formula, the film shifts focus to “who’s really the victim here?” Throughout the movie, your perception of who’s in danger and who’s to blame keeps changing. With twists at every turn, the story keeps you on edge, forcing your mind to question everything until the very end. The plot twists don’t just shock you—they keep you tense and thinking hard until the final moments.
Visually Stunning
From a cinematography standpoint, this film is top-tier. With the bold claim of “COMPLETELY SHOT ON 35MM FILM,” Strange Darling boasts a unique visual identity. The colors are richer, the details more pronounced, and every scene feels alive. The camera angles are meticulously chosen, ensuring that each shot effectively conveys its purpose to the audience. This amplifies the intensity of every moment. And the best part? The film’s final image leaves viewers speechless, needing time to process everything they’ve just witnessed.
A Deep Message and an Unforgettable Ending
One of the most striking aspects of Strange Darling is its poetic, irony-laden ending. With themes like “love hurts” and “better the devil you know than the devil you don’t,” the film masterfully portrays the conflicts its characters must endure. The epilogue isn’t just an afterthought—it delivers a lasting impact that lingers in the mind. Strange Darling isn’t just a crime thriller; it’s an exploration of human relationships and the difficult choices we face in life.
Overall, Strange Darling is a fresh, unpredictable crime thriller. The storytelling is sharp, the visuals are mesmerizing, and the soundtrack perfectly complements each scene. This film proves that the crime-thriller genre still has room for innovation, offering something truly different. It’s not just for crime film enthusiasts—it’s for anyone who loves a good mystery. The hype surrounding this film is well-deserved, and I personally found it deeply satisfying.
